Established in 1966, Vans have made a name for itself as a skateboarding and lifestyle sneaker company that has stood the test of time. From making custom skate shoes in the 60s to creating their classic lines, Vans has dominated the game. You can’t argue about the classic Vans Old Skool sneakers that have been around since their debut in 1977. They survived almost half a century, remaining a favourite in sneaker and skate culture.
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Vans Old Skool Design

The original design has stood the test of time and is a classic that fits into just about any lifestyle. The Vans Old Skool “Navy” continue the classic look.
The sneakers have a padded collar lined inside with black leather, making them incredibly comfortable and supportive despite being low-cut on the ankle.
Despite being made of relatively thin canvas (unlike many padded sneakers out there), the navy blue upper has panelling of black suede that is surprisingly sturdy, with stitching and reinforcing on the toe cap that can withstand sports like skateboarding and is sure to be a pair of sneakers that will last you a while if you are getting them for everyday wear.
The white lacing is incredibly soft despite being durable. It doesn’t dirty quickly (unless you are trapesing through mud, of course), much like the iconic white tumbled leather side stripe we know and love from the Old Skool classic style.
The rubber midsole of the Vans Old Skool sneaker is sturdy while supportive, with a surprising amount of bounce for comfort. At the same time, the outsole comprises the classic rubber waffle pattern that makes these sneakers famous.
Comfort
These sneakers are surprisingly comfortable, with a padded collar that helps with any chafing and is incredibly supportive.
Like any great, quality pair of sneakers, they take a few days to wear in and work out the kinks, but once you get into the swing of lacing them up securely, they conform to the contours of your feet. There is no chafing around the toes and even around the heel.
Whether you are looking at these Vans Old Skool sneakers for streetwear or skatewear, they offer superb comfort, and I almost did not want to take them off at the end of the day.
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Performance

Vans Old Skool sneakers have made a name for themselves in the skate world for a reason, and that is the incredible board-sticking quality that they offer. The waffle pattern of the outsole is perfectly designed for traction, and I found myself sticking to the floor when first putting them on.
The sneakers also offer decent support for other activities. However, they were only somewhat made for running and ball sports. This surprisingly versatile pair of sneakers can take on nearly any task you throw at it.
Quality
I will sound like a broken record, but Vans knows what it’s doing when making its classic shoes. Every aspect of the sneakers, from the touches of leather, canvas and suede, is thoughtfully made for function and durability. From reinforced sections, sturdy canvas, and weirdly dirt-deterrent suede, these sneakers were made to last, a quality that is hard to find in fashion these days.
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Is Vans Old Skool Worth It?
In short? Yes. The Vans range is on the more affordable side of the many illustrious sneaker brands that it finds itself a part of, so you get a quality pair of sneakers for a price that isn’t going to break the bank.
With the quality materials that the sneakers are made up of, the tried and tested design that has held its place in pop culture, sneaker culture, and skate culture for decades, and comfort that you won’t find in another pair of sneakers with this silhouette and performance that is made for the streets, it is definitely a worthy purchase.
The Review
Vans Old Skool "Navy"
The Vans Old Skool sneaker is not only a classic that has had a chokehold on fashion and pop culture for almost 50 years now but is also perfect for lifestyle and sport.
PROS
- Affordable
- Stylish and functional
- Supportive and comfortable
- Plenty of options in a classic silhouette
CONS
- Not the most visually exciting
- Takes a few days to wear in